Do kids learn it by watching you or can you help them learn it?
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I don't think so. Real empathy is something innate. I think you can teach your child to be kind to people or to do the right thing, but true empathy can't be forced.
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I found this article on empathy as a teachable trait really interesting. I definitely think modeling empathy is important, but it sounds like there's ways you can actively encourage empathy in kids. http://www.parentingscience.com/teaching-empathy.html
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My son doesn't seem super empathetic. He is sweet and affectionate, but doesn't offer consolation when someone is visibly upset. I try to encourage it by talking to him about how the other person might feel, and relating it to how he feels when he is sad. It's helped him be more aware.
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I think it's a combination... I think you can teach it to a certain extent, but some people naturally have higher EQ than others. I do think dramatic life events can change people, and can shift someone's perspective in incredible ways though.
I just posted this quote and think it's so true!
“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
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4 comments